Cyclone Michaung Alert: Developing Weather System Raises Concerns

In a significant meteorological development, the Well Marked Low Pressure Area observed yesterday over the Southeast Bay of Bengal has undergone a notable transformation. The system has evolved into a Depression, with the latest reports indicating its center at 0530 hours IST on the 1st of December 2023. Positioned over the Southeast adjoining Southwest Bay of Bengal near Latitude 9.1°N and Longitude 86.4°E, the Depression is situated approximately 790 km east-southeast of Puducherry, 800 km southeast of Chennai, 990 km southeast of Bapatla, and 970 km southeast of Machilipatnam.

Forecasted Trajectory and Intensity: Projections suggest a continued west-northwestward movement, with expectations of the Depression intensifying into a Deep Depression by the 2nd of December. Subsequently, meteorologists anticipate a further escalation, envisioning the system transforming into Cyclonic Storm Michaung over the Southwest Bay of Bengal around the 3rd of December.

Anticipated Landfall: Cyclone Michaung is forecasted to adopt a northwestward trajectory, with a projected landfall between Chennai and Machilipatnam along the South Andhra Pradesh and adjoining North Tamil Nadu coast. This event is anticipated to occur during the evening of the 4th of December, marking Michaung’s arrival as a formidable Cyclonic Storm.

Pre-Cyclone Watch: Yellow Message: The evolving situation prompts the issuance of a Pre-Cyclone Watch, signified by a Yellow Message. Residents and relevant authorities are urged to stay vigilant, monitor updates from meteorological agencies, and undertake necessary precautions as Cyclone Michaung progresses. Further advisories will be provided to ensure preparedness and safety measures are effectively implemented in the affected regions.